'Now have to constantly restrain myself': Halimah Yacob on patting kids following Roxy Square altercation

Former Singapore president Halimah Yacob said she now thinks twice about patting children on the head during a speech at the launch of two new active ageing centres in Tampines.

Her comments appeared to refer to the Roxy Square altercation on Aug. 15.

An elderly man had patted a girl's head and he was thrown to the ground by the girl's father.

Halimah was speaking about how society has become more fragmented and the need for intergenerational bonding in community spaces, according to a video posted by CNA.

Society has become fragmented

Speaking about the need for meaningful activities that promote intergenerational bonding, Halimah said seniors like to see and talk to young children.

"Nowadays, it's a problem, you can't pat their heads also," she said, drawing laughter from the audience.

She admitted that she used to do that "all the time", but now has to "constantly restrain" herself, adding that she is "very scared".

"We all got traumatised, isn't it," she jibed.

She explained that patting children on the head is a sign of endearment, especially among older people.

"Society has become so fragmented, unfortunately," she added.